New River Access Launch Enhances Recreation in Cuyahoga Valley National Park

BRECKSVILLE, Ohio — A new river access point along the Cuyahoga River officially opened today in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, expanding recreational opportunities for paddlers through a partnership between the National Park Service and Summit Metro Parks.

Located at Northampton Point on Akron-Peninsula Road in Cuyahoga Falls, the site features a launch and take-out area, parking, a seating area, changing rooms, and a seasonal portable restroom. The project was led and funded with $396,000 by Summit Metro Parks and is designed to provide a convenient stop for paddlers on the 88-mile Cuyahoga River National Water Trail.

“As we expand public access along this newly designated Cuyahoga River National Water Trail, we are especially grateful for our partnership with Summit Metro Parks,” said Lisa Petit, superintendent of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. “It is only through collaboration with our partners that we are able to provide this long-awaited river access point within the national park.”

Northampton Point is situated 6 miles downstream from the Valley View Area of Cascade Valley Metro Park. That stretch typically takes paddlers two to three hours to complete, making the new location a logical and accessible endpoint for recreational trips.

“Partnering with Cuyahoga Valley National Park was the perfect way to efficiently provide a new opportunity for visitors to enjoy the popular activity of river paddling,” said Lisa King, executive director of Summit Metro Parks. “The new Northampton Point location fulfills a critical need that will allow more people to connect with nature on the restored Cuyahoga River.”

The site is part of a broader regional effort to improve river health and access. The Cuyahoga River received National Water Trail designation following decades of environmental restoration, including dam removals and habitat enhancements. Summit Metro Parks alone has restored nearly a mile of river habitat, including floodplain excavation and instream improvements that benefit aquatic life and water quality.

The new launch area complements a growing network of recreational resources in the park, including the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, the scenic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and an interconnected system of biking and hiking paths. The Valley View area, a hub for outdoor activity, is projected to welcome over 2 million visitors annually and generate $2.8 million in tourism revenue.

While the river access at Northampton Point is free, no shuttle service is currently provided. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, wear life jackets, and check river conditions before launching.

“Safe, easy access is critical to helping people build a connection to this river,” said King. “Northampton Point represents a meaningful step forward for the region’s residents and visitors.”

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